Changes to 'breathe new life' into Simi Valley festival

Simi Valley has given extra attention to its annual festival this year, with new events, fresh entertainment and a larger board of directors.

"Simi Valley Days got its start in 1933 when it was called Pioneer Days," said Gordon Voshall, the board president. Each year the festival changed with the town. This year, it will be called the Simi Valley Fair and Music Festival and run Sept. 21-25.

"We chose to rename it in order to bring in a different crowd," said Colleen Graven, a first-time board member.

Graven said that in years past, the festival has lacked family attendance. About 25,000 people came last year, but board members expect a larger turnout this year.

"We wanted to breathe new life into the show, to get the community involved," Graven said. The board expanded to accommodate new ideas and fresh thinkers.

"In the years before, if we couldn't bring enough people, we would hear people blaming the bad economy," said Voshall, a board member for almost 10 years. "If we can't perk the town's interest, then we won't be able to get them to come."

First on the list of new family attractions is the Kids Celebrating Community Art and Essay Contest.

"We want kids to have the opportunity to be involved, by having them come and showcase their art as well as their essays," Graven said. "We can get their parents there and can make it more of a family event."

She said awards will be given to children from kindergarten to 12th grade.

"We are still looking for people to sponsor the art show and maybe help with a float," Graven said.

Voshall said the board also decided to invite more school bands to participate in the event's parade.

"This festival is a celebration of the city," Voshall said. "And this year we are really making a push to have the city more involved."

He added that the entertainment and carnival ride lineups also will be more diverse.

The festival is a major fundraiser for organizers. "All the money brought in goes back to support local nonprofits and charities. People don't seem to realize that," Voshall said.